Burl Dean Hicks

Burl Dean Hicks, a faithful servant of God and a steward of His creation, was called home to be with the Lord on May 20, 2024, at the age of 82. Born on August 4, 1941, in Lebanon, Missouri, Dean walked through life with humility, exuding the love of Christ to all who knew him. As a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Dean's gentle spirit and unwavering faith left an indelible mark on the hearts of his family and community.

Dean answered the call to serve his country with honor in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968, embodying the virtues of courage and selflessness. Upon returning to civilian life, he continued to serve, applying his God-given talents as a diesel mechanic. His diligent work, a testament to his respect for the craftsmanship of God's world, benefited many transportation companies, including Quad City Kenworth, Munson Transportation, and Sharkey Transportation.

In 1995, Dean felt a divine calling to Marion, Indiana, where he tenderly cared for the land and people of Shiloh Park and the Grant County 4H Fairgrounds, serving for nearly two decades. His labor was not only a job but a ministry, nurturing the earth and fostering a space where the community could come together in fellowship.

A pillar of the First Church of the Nazarene in Marion, Indiana, Dean's commitment to his faith community was steadfast. As the head usher, he welcomed each person with a smile that reflected the love of Jesus, and his tireless volunteer work for the church's various ministries exemplified his gratitude for the grace he had received.

Dean is survived by his loving wife, Verna L. (Ohlensehlen) Hicks, and his children: Paul D. (Laura) Clark of Barnesville, GA, Jeffrey A. Hicks of Marion, Indiana, Kevin D. (Angie) Hicks of Marion, Indiana, Michael D. (Jennifer) Hicks of Howe, Indiana. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Amber Garrett of Dahlonega, Georgia, Cheryl (Derik) Garrels of Knoxville, Iowa, Emma Hicks, Marion, Indiana, Bailey (Ana) Hicks (Nappanee, Indiana), Brennan Hicks, Howe, Indiana, Kira Humes, Marion, Indiana and Luka Humes, Marion, Indiana and great grandchildren Asher and Weston Garrett, Dahlonega, Georgia. His sister Linda (Larry) Swims, Stafford, Missouri, and brother Kenneth (Cindy) Hicks, North Port, Florida, also survive.

He was preceded in death by his beloved his parents Herbert and Dorothy (Douglas) Hicks and brother Robert Hicks.

A celebration of life in honor of Burl Dean Hicks will be held on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at the First Church of the Nazarene, 700 W Kem Rd, Marion, Indiana, at 11am. Graveside services will immediately follow at the Marion National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Church of the Nazarene's Youth and Children's Camp Fund.

The College Park Chapel of Armes-Hunt Funeral Home & Cremation Services has been entrusted with the care of Dean, ensuring his family receives support with grace and compassion during this time of transition.